An Introduction to HTML

The Central CAPT web site has moved to be part of a new National CAPT web site. In 10 seconds you will be automatically redirected to http://captus.samhsa.gov/central/central.cfm -- Use this form if you have any questions.

Paul Zobitz, Central CAPT

This document was derived from a presentation given at Technology and Prevention: Working Together for Results on June 22, 2000. The headings relate to the notes given at the presentation.

HTML: What is it?

HTML = Hyper-Text Markup Language
A programming language that describes how a Web page looks

HTML pages are basically plain text files that contain special programming code. When these pages are viewed in a browser, the code tells the browser how to format the text and graphics on the page.

HTML: Why should I care?

Knowledge is power
Understand what is possible with a Web page
Ensure Web designers don't sell you the Brooklyn Bridge

It is important to understand HTML if you are planning to create a Web presence for your organization or company. A basic understanding of HTML will ensure that you know some things that can and cannot be done with a Web page. It is also important to know some basics so that you will have greater confidence when dealing with Web designers. Knowledge goes a long way in ensuring that a Web design firm will not attempt to sell you something that you either do not need or is not possible.

OK, so now what??

Let's take a look at an HTML page
When looking at a Web page, choose the "View Source" option

The first step in understanding HTML is to simply take a look at the actual code for a web page. If you view the source of this page, you can begin to gain an understanding of HTML.

HTML Basics

Look of a page is controlled by tags
All HTML tags are in brackets
e.g.
```
<HTML>
```
Most tags need to be turned on and off
e.g.
```
<B>This text will be in bold</B>
```

Some Basic HTML Tags

```
<HTML> </HTML>
```
-- Used at the beginning and end of document
```
<HEAD> </HEAD>
```
-- Page header information (does not show up in browser)
```
<TITLE> </TITLE>
```
-- What appears in the browser window's title
```
<BODY> </BODY>
```
-- The "meat and potatoes" of the Web page
```
<H1> </H1>
```
-- Used to denote a heading
```
<P> </P>
```
-- Paragraph Marker
```
<B> </B>
```
-- Bold text

Some Things to Remember

HTML files should be plain text files
HTML files must end with .html or .htm extension
To view an HTML document saved locally, use the "Open File" command, not the "Open Location" command from the browser

Is There an Easier Way?

Yes! You don't have to know all of HTML to create Web pages
There are many graphical editors (e.g. Dreamweaver, Front Page, Page Mill)
Microsoft Word has a "Save as HTML" command

Other Fancy Effects

Find out if you can add dynamic content to your Web site
Most dynamic content comes from Plug-ins or CGIs
Use forms to collect data or send an email

For more information on dynamic content, check out Adding Fancy Stuff to Web Pages

For More Information

These links provide additional information on HTML. You can also go to your local bookstore or library to find a plethora of books that cover all aspects of HTML and Web page creation.

A Beginner's Guide to HTML -- www.ncsa.uiuc.edu/General/Internet/WWW/HTMLPrimerPrintable.html
HTML Resources Guide -- www.webcom.com/html/
Web Developers Virtual Library -- www.wdvl.com